The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched its keenly anticipated call for evidence on setting a UK-wide end date for the sale of new non-zero-emission coaches. A separate call for evidence on achieving the same step for minibuses was published at the same time.
DfT has linked both to a consultation on identical but more advanced work for new buses, although it specifically notes that bus proposals in the common document do not concern coaches or minibuses. The call for evidence approach was first revealed by Under-Secretary of State for Transport Baroness Vere in January and it reflects DfT’s recognition that “the coach industry faces different challenges to decarbonisation to those if the bus industry.”
As part of the call, DfT want to obtain evidence and views to help it understand:
- The challenges to transitioning to a zero-emission coach fleet
- What may be a realistic date to end the sale of new non-zero-emission coaches
- What needs to be true or in place to make a phase out of non-zero-emission coaches happen
- What the government could do to accelerate the transition.
Responses will inform the government about what an “appropriate” end date may be, “and the extent to which government intervention is necessary to accelerate the transition” for both coaches and minibuses, Lady Vere says in her introduction to the combined call for evidence and consultation document. No suggested dates are presented.
Perhaps tellingly in view of how the call for evidence will inform ministers, it acknowledges that zero-emission coaches are significantly more expensive than comparable diesel vehicles, and that infrastructure costs must also be considered. It also recognises that zero-emission coach availability trails well behind that in the zero-emission bus market.
The call for evidence references the Zero Emission Coach Taskforce (ZECT), which was established in late 2021 by the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT). Taskforce Chair Ian Luckett previously welcomed Lady Vere’s confirmation that a call for evidence was to be held, noting subsequently that ZECT’s early work would focus on identifying hurdles to the transition to zero-emission in the coach industry rather than solutions.
In response to publication of the call for evidence, Mr Luckett adds: “ZECT has held some enlightening meetings so far with stakeholders from all areas of the coach industry from operators to suppliers, and manufacturers to infrastructure providers.
“Thanks to this group, much of the preparation work has already been done to enable CPT to respond on behalf of the entire sector. It is a fascinating and important time for the coach industry. It is crucial that we understand the challenges ahead and steer government towards a meaningful solution to the zero-emission coach.”
The deadline for submissions to the calls for evidence is 21 May. They can be made by post to the address stated in the combined consultation and call for evidence document or via email. DfT will publish a summary of responses and the next steps by 21 August.
